Understanding Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has gained a lot of media attention over the past few years, thanks to a substantial increase in the number of people being infected. Even though the virus itself first appeared in humans about 70 years ago, the recent surge in infections is definitely unusual — and worth paying attention to. 

In recent years, RSV infections have resulted in hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations annually, predominantly in very young kids and older adults. About 10,000 adults aged 65 and older die every year from the disease, according to data from the American Lung Association.

As a leading urgent care provider in Clarksburg, Maryland, Clarksburg Urgent Care offers patient-centered treatment for RSV infections and other respiratory infections, helping patients of all ages manage their symptoms and even prevent infection in the first place. 

In this post, learn what RSV is, what symptoms it causes, and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.

RSV basics

RSV is a very contagious virus that often causes infections during childhood. In fact, it’s a relatively common cause of childhood illness. 

The virus is transmitted in the same way as many other respiratory viruses: through airborne particles. You can breathe in these particles after an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, or from touching a contaminated surface and then touching your face.

The symptoms of RSV are also similar to cold and flu symptoms and include runny nose, headache, congestion, cough, sneezing, and fever. However, RSV can cause far more severe infections in some people, leading to serious breathing issues. 

Like the flu, RSV can progress to other lung diseases, like pneumonia or bronchitis, sometimes requiring hospitalization and oxygen therapy.

Treating and preventing RSV infection

To date, there are no antiviral medications specifically focused on treating RSV infections. Like many other viral infections, the focus is on relieving the symptoms while helping your body recover.

Treating infections

RSV management involves many of the same recommendations as flu infection management: Get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, and use over-the-counter medicines to manage aches, fever, and congestion. 

For people at higher risk of complications, it’s important to seek medical care right away. This includes older adults, young kids, and individuals who are immunocompromised or have underlying medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, or a lung disease like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Preventing infections

One of the best ways to prevent RSV is to avoid exposure to the virus. That means washing your hands regularly, disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, avoiding places where people congregate, and avoiding close contact with anyone exhibiting symptoms.

Currently, there is an RSV vaccine available for older people, pregnant women, and others who have risk factors for severe complications. Immunization is also available to help young children develop immunity and avoid RSV infections.

If you think you or your child may have RSV, seeking medical care early is a good way to prevent more serious complications, whether you’re at higher risk or not. 

To learn what’s causing your symptoms and how we can help you feel better, request an appointment with our team at Clarksburg Urgent Care today. Call our office, walk in during regular business hours, or book your visit online.